Sempe Armagnac Grande Reserve

The first written record of Armagnac dates back to 1411. It is France's oldest brandy. Three cultures were necessary to give us the Armagnac so many enjoy today: The Romans who brought vines to Gascony, the Moors who distilled the region's wines, and the Celts who taught the Gascons how to use oak barrels to coax the brandy into its greatest expression. In order to be called Armagnac, the brandy must come from the Armagnac region and production is tightly regulated. The Sempé family dates back to the 14th century. Commercial production began in 1932. The Armagnac is made from white wines from carefully selected vineyards and distilled only once through a copper alembic to provide unique, robust flavors. The Armagnac is then stored in black oak casks until the Cellar Master deems it ready. Sempé is the #2 Armagnac in the world. Sempé Armagnac Grande Reserve XO is characterized by an ample and fruity nose. In the mouth it possesses woody notes, growing slowly spicy on the finish. Armagnac is best served in a pear shaped glass with a round belly and tapered chimney or a champagne glass as opposed to a brandy snifter. Hold the glass at chest level and let the aroma waft up. Take a small sip to coat the mouth with its delicate flavors. As the glass and evening progress, your hand cupped on the glass will warm the Armagnac unlocking new aromas and flavors befitting this superior product.